Charmaine is feeling very good this morning. So glad to be home and feel normal again.
Yesterday afternoon our Sunday School class at church was having a cookout at McIntosh Reserve just passed Whitesburg. It was outside so I decided to take her to it. This was the first time since the chemo rounds started that she has been in large group of people. It was under a large pavilion and I was very careful to seat her upwind from everyone. It was a bit hard for all of our old friends not to touch her but they all understood. It really did her good to get to do this and just feel normal for a while. The food was great and so was it to see all our church friends again.
I think I over did it a bit on giving her too much of the wrong foods there. She had a short round of being sick when we got back and was tired but I think ok now. Just from eating on a tender stomach I hope.
If you have never been there you should take your family and kids. It is like a state park setting and very beautiful. It has a small area for kids called sprinkle and splash with water fountains for the kids to run under and play. The shoals on the river are breath taking. It is only about 15 minutes from hwy 5 and 166 to it.
I can't begin to tell you how wonderful it is to see a normal expression on her face and to see her eyes twinkle again when she smiles. We have today and 2 more full days before we start again.
Thanks for caring.
Sam
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Saturday, May 30, 2009
Saturday....May 30th....
Our Dr. visit went well yesterday. All of her #'s looked good. Her white count was near 3000 which is near normal range. This will allow her to see people more freely without threat of infection.
She did not have to have any transfusions.
The Dr. did give us a change in plans which has happened before.
We check in Wednesday for the 4th round of chemo which will be 2B regiment. The B regiment is shorter and not quite as severe as A. Will probable be there till Saturday or Sunday.
He decided not to do the bone marrow biopsy next week. Instead he is doing a PCR test to check the cancer cells. This test is done with blood samples which they took yesterday. It is very accurate but not nearly as accurate as the marrow biopsy.
He said he thought she was ready for the marrow transplant now. They have started the search for the best donor. The results from the PCR tests will confirm his belief. They will do a marrow biopsy later to absolutely confirm her cell count before going forward with transplant.
Until then we will continue with the chemo regiments as scheduled.
Preparing for the transplant will take lots of time. She will have some strong chemo treatments and will have a week of full body radiation.
The Dr. took her off some of the meds shes taking for a few days and gave her an antibiotic for intestinal bacteria to help curb the diarrhea. It has stopped now. Yesterday afternoon she felt better than she has since all this started. Near normal physically and mentally.
Looking forward to 4 days at home feeling good.
Please pray that God would set aside the perfect donor that's best for her and guide the DRs. to them. They said a young healthy male is the best donor.
Thanks to so many of you for the cards, calls, and for caring about her. Thanks to many for taking the time to read this post because you care.
Sam
She did not have to have any transfusions.
The Dr. did give us a change in plans which has happened before.
We check in Wednesday for the 4th round of chemo which will be 2B regiment. The B regiment is shorter and not quite as severe as A. Will probable be there till Saturday or Sunday.
He decided not to do the bone marrow biopsy next week. Instead he is doing a PCR test to check the cancer cells. This test is done with blood samples which they took yesterday. It is very accurate but not nearly as accurate as the marrow biopsy.
He said he thought she was ready for the marrow transplant now. They have started the search for the best donor. The results from the PCR tests will confirm his belief. They will do a marrow biopsy later to absolutely confirm her cell count before going forward with transplant.
Until then we will continue with the chemo regiments as scheduled.
Preparing for the transplant will take lots of time. She will have some strong chemo treatments and will have a week of full body radiation.
The Dr. took her off some of the meds shes taking for a few days and gave her an antibiotic for intestinal bacteria to help curb the diarrhea. It has stopped now. Yesterday afternoon she felt better than she has since all this started. Near normal physically and mentally.
Looking forward to 4 days at home feeling good.
Please pray that God would set aside the perfect donor that's best for her and guide the DRs. to them. They said a young healthy male is the best donor.
Thanks to so many of you for the cards, calls, and for caring about her. Thanks to many for taking the time to read this post because you care.
Sam
Friday, May 29, 2009
Friday May 29th ....Update
We go back to the clinic this morning for lab work, a Dr. visit, and possible blood or plasma transfusion.
I almost took her to the emergency room last night but decided to wait for our visit.
As I mention before, she has had diarrhea unending since we have been home, especially before bedtime. It was so bad last night I fear she may be getting dehydrated.
This makes her so very weak she can hardly move around.
This is so frustrating. We don't know what's causing it. She did sleep most of the night but is exhausted. It really breaks her spirit.
I am still amazed how well she can be and one minute later be so very sick from different issues. It's hard to pinpoint the cause since so many drugs and treatments are going on at once.
I'll update you all later today with more news.
We are taking our bags with us today just in case we stay in hospital.
Sam
I almost took her to the emergency room last night but decided to wait for our visit.
As I mention before, she has had diarrhea unending since we have been home, especially before bedtime. It was so bad last night I fear she may be getting dehydrated.
This makes her so very weak she can hardly move around.
This is so frustrating. We don't know what's causing it. She did sleep most of the night but is exhausted. It really breaks her spirit.
I am still amazed how well she can be and one minute later be so very sick from different issues. It's hard to pinpoint the cause since so many drugs and treatments are going on at once.
I'll update you all later today with more news.
We are taking our bags with us today just in case we stay in hospital.
Sam
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Thursday May 28th.......HOME
Yesterday about lunch we did indeed get released to come home. She was so excited. We were told to be back at clinic Friday at 11 am for lab work up on blood.
We will go back next week for a bone marrow biopsy. The following Tuesday June 8th we will check in for the fourth round of chemo called 2B.
Night before last and last night she was plagued with diarreah. When we got home she was so weak even till bedtime she could hardly keep her eyes open. I always get concerned about dehydration when this happens.
As I have said before, one of the most amazing things about this process is how well she can be feeling and within minutes become very sick. It seems that is normal. That's why they keep her so long in the hospital for observation during chemo and the recovery week after day 7 of the chemo treatment.
Please pray that she will get her strength back and be able to enjoy this extended time at home.
Sam
We will go back next week for a bone marrow biopsy. The following Tuesday June 8th we will check in for the fourth round of chemo called 2B.
Night before last and last night she was plagued with diarreah. When we got home she was so weak even till bedtime she could hardly keep her eyes open. I always get concerned about dehydration when this happens.
As I have said before, one of the most amazing things about this process is how well she can be feeling and within minutes become very sick. It seems that is normal. That's why they keep her so long in the hospital for observation during chemo and the recovery week after day 7 of the chemo treatment.
Please pray that she will get her strength back and be able to enjoy this extended time at home.
Sam
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Tuesday May 26th.........NEW NEWS
Charmaine will not get to come home today but may be able tomorrow if her platelets continue to rise on her own without a transfusion.
We did get some very encouraging news today.
The Drs. are very pleased with her #'s and the way her body is reacting to the chemo. One even said he would not be surprised if she was already in remission(which means more ready for the bone marrow transplant and all the cancer cells have been killed).
Today, we found out that next week she will be getting a bone marrow biopsy to check the cancer levels in her bone marrow which is most accurate way to know. This is happening 1 chemo round earlier than it should. Her main Dr. also said they were starting to narrow the best donor down and get the process started of locating them ect. Sometimes the best match is from another country!! They fly the marrow in and can freeze it for a while if necessary.
She has felt great for the past 2 days, nearly normal physically and mentally.
I have been praying that God would lessen the effects on her while getting chemo and the days after them. He has answered that prayer as they are much easier on her each time and she is bouncing back much faster. I have also been praying that God would shorten this difficult journey for her. The news today may be that answer. The Dr. told her today that she may only have to stay in the hospital 4 weeks for it, if all goes well. Originally we were told to expect 6 to 8 weeks here. Please pray that God would let her body accept the transplant with few side effects. Also pray that God would select the best donor and guide the Drs. to them even if He has to shut some doors for them to be found.
We are not niave about the bone marrow transplant. The chemo treatments getting ready for it are much more intense than the ones she is on now. After the procedure is done for some time lots of potential side effects may flare up. She is anxious to have it done now and is excited about today's news. This is a very serious complex and dangerous procedure but it is her only hope to be cured from the type cancer she has and live a normal life.
More good news today also. We have heard that for 2 or 3 months after the transplant that we would have to get a place to live here no more than 5 minutes from the clinic. Today the Dr. said we would not. It is exactly 36 miles from our door to here. Normally I can drive it in 45 to 50 minutes.
More later,
Sam
We did get some very encouraging news today.
The Drs. are very pleased with her #'s and the way her body is reacting to the chemo. One even said he would not be surprised if she was already in remission(which means more ready for the bone marrow transplant and all the cancer cells have been killed).
Today, we found out that next week she will be getting a bone marrow biopsy to check the cancer levels in her bone marrow which is most accurate way to know. This is happening 1 chemo round earlier than it should. Her main Dr. also said they were starting to narrow the best donor down and get the process started of locating them ect. Sometimes the best match is from another country!! They fly the marrow in and can freeze it for a while if necessary.
She has felt great for the past 2 days, nearly normal physically and mentally.
I have been praying that God would lessen the effects on her while getting chemo and the days after them. He has answered that prayer as they are much easier on her each time and she is bouncing back much faster. I have also been praying that God would shorten this difficult journey for her. The news today may be that answer. The Dr. told her today that she may only have to stay in the hospital 4 weeks for it, if all goes well. Originally we were told to expect 6 to 8 weeks here. Please pray that God would let her body accept the transplant with few side effects. Also pray that God would select the best donor and guide the Drs. to them even if He has to shut some doors for them to be found.
We are not niave about the bone marrow transplant. The chemo treatments getting ready for it are much more intense than the ones she is on now. After the procedure is done for some time lots of potential side effects may flare up. She is anxious to have it done now and is excited about today's news. This is a very serious complex and dangerous procedure but it is her only hope to be cured from the type cancer she has and live a normal life.
More good news today also. We have heard that for 2 or 3 months after the transplant that we would have to get a place to live here no more than 5 minutes from the clinic. Today the Dr. said we would not. It is exactly 36 miles from our door to here. Normally I can drive it in 45 to 50 minutes.
More later,
Sam
Monday, May 25, 2009
Monday May 25th.....Update
Yesterday Charmaine had a great day if that's possible in the hospital. She had to have a transfusion of platelets and had another one today. Before she gets any transfusion they give her pre-meds (Tylenol and Benadryl) to minimize any side effects.
Platelets are given in the iv and look like a bag of chicken broth or drawn butter.It only takes 15 to 20 minutes for this. Blood plasma takes 2 hrs per unit.
Today her potassium and magnesium levels were low and she was given both to help
She has already walked 7 laps around the floor today and almost killed me yesterday doing laps. Must have done 20 or 30 yesterday. 20 laps around the floor is 1 mile.
Hope to bring her home Wednesday or Thursday.
Hope you all have have a safe holiday.
Sam
Platelets are given in the iv and look like a bag of chicken broth or drawn butter.It only takes 15 to 20 minutes for this. Blood plasma takes 2 hrs per unit.
Today her potassium and magnesium levels were low and she was given both to help
She has already walked 7 laps around the floor today and almost killed me yesterday doing laps. Must have done 20 or 30 yesterday. 20 laps around the floor is 1 mile.
Hope to bring her home Wednesday or Thursday.
Hope you all have have a safe holiday.
Sam
Saturday, May 23, 2009
Saturday May 23rd..........Update
Charmaine had a very good day today. Her mind is very clear. It's like being with the old Charmaine.
Her red blood count had dropped this morning so she had 2 units of blood today. It takes about 2 hrs per unit when she gets these. It is not painful........just like an iv dripping. Just has to stay in bed for 4 hrs. but all went well. She has had no side effects or fevers from it so far. These are common with transfusions.
Her spirit is high and she is in a very good frame of mind. After the transfusion was over we walked maybe 10 laps around the hospital floor. I was tired, she was not.
During the night they take blood samples and send to the lab every night. By morning they know her counts and know what to give her.
She may have to have more blood and or platelets tomorrow. The 1st round of regiment A, which is the one she has just finished (A) she had to have 6 units of blood and platelets. Monday will be the low point for her blood counts then they start rising again. That's the most dangerous time for her because the white cell count drops so low. When they get below 1000 she is considered neutropenic. That's when her immune system is most compromised and she could easily be infected by germs ect.
All of the above is normal and right by the book on protocol for her treatments.
She is really doing quite well.Her appearance has not changed much at all except for wearing the scarf. I have accused her of wanting to be a "biker babe" with her do-rag on.
Thanks for reading and caring about us so much.
More later.
Sam
Her red blood count had dropped this morning so she had 2 units of blood today. It takes about 2 hrs per unit when she gets these. It is not painful........just like an iv dripping. Just has to stay in bed for 4 hrs. but all went well. She has had no side effects or fevers from it so far. These are common with transfusions.
Her spirit is high and she is in a very good frame of mind. After the transfusion was over we walked maybe 10 laps around the hospital floor. I was tired, she was not.
During the night they take blood samples and send to the lab every night. By morning they know her counts and know what to give her.
She may have to have more blood and or platelets tomorrow. The 1st round of regiment A, which is the one she has just finished (A) she had to have 6 units of blood and platelets. Monday will be the low point for her blood counts then they start rising again. That's the most dangerous time for her because the white cell count drops so low. When they get below 1000 she is considered neutropenic. That's when her immune system is most compromised and she could easily be infected by germs ect.
All of the above is normal and right by the book on protocol for her treatments.
She is really doing quite well.Her appearance has not changed much at all except for wearing the scarf. I have accused her of wanting to be a "biker babe" with her do-rag on.
Thanks for reading and caring about us so much.
More later.
Sam
Friday, May 22, 2009
Friday..May 22.....BACK IN HOSPITAL 5-6 DAYS
We went to the Emory Clinic this morning at 8:30. She was feeling very good and in good spirits anticipating getting to come back home. We hardly took enough for a hospital stay as we were so sure we'd be coming back home.
Her blood counts were just as they should be for day 11. Her platelets were 83. That's down from over 200 on Tuesday.
The Dr. made no bones about it, immediately. We were told we were checking in to hospital for 5 to 6 days so they could watch her closely as her counts begin to fall. Said it was just too risky with her on Lovenox to thin her blood with her platelets falling so fast.
Needless to say, she was very disappointed as she wanted to come back home. We both know and agree that it is better to be safe; so we checked back in to hospital.
This is the first time we have not been on the 6th floor. We are on the 7th in room 712E.
This evening she saw a new Dr. that is on call this weekend. He told her that he had been watching her #'s and charts and would be surprised if she was not already in remission now. Only a bone marrow biopsy will reveal that. I think she gets one after the 4th round of chemo. If that is true (in remission) that means she may be able to get the bone marrow transplant earlier and not have to go through all 8 regiments of chemo.
She is resting well now and feeling good. This stay is purely for observation and to keep a watchful eye on her blood counts. All her counts should naturally start rising on Monday or Tuesday.
We hope to get out Wednesday or Thursday and have 4 to 6 days at home before we go for # 4 round.
I think she will have to back June 2nd for next round for 3 or 4 days. We'll see.
I know this post was long but had lots to tell you all.
She's doing great.
Sam
Her blood counts were just as they should be for day 11. Her platelets were 83. That's down from over 200 on Tuesday.
The Dr. made no bones about it, immediately. We were told we were checking in to hospital for 5 to 6 days so they could watch her closely as her counts begin to fall. Said it was just too risky with her on Lovenox to thin her blood with her platelets falling so fast.
Needless to say, she was very disappointed as she wanted to come back home. We both know and agree that it is better to be safe; so we checked back in to hospital.
This is the first time we have not been on the 6th floor. We are on the 7th in room 712E.
This evening she saw a new Dr. that is on call this weekend. He told her that he had been watching her #'s and charts and would be surprised if she was not already in remission now. Only a bone marrow biopsy will reveal that. I think she gets one after the 4th round of chemo. If that is true (in remission) that means she may be able to get the bone marrow transplant earlier and not have to go through all 8 regiments of chemo.
She is resting well now and feeling good. This stay is purely for observation and to keep a watchful eye on her blood counts. All her counts should naturally start rising on Monday or Tuesday.
We hope to get out Wednesday or Thursday and have 4 to 6 days at home before we go for # 4 round.
I think she will have to back June 2nd for next round for 3 or 4 days. We'll see.
I know this post was long but had lots to tell you all.
She's doing great.
Sam
Thursday, May 21, 2009
May 21, Thursday.....Update
Charmaine had a wonderful day today, maybe the best yet. Had very few problems with side effects, just a little fatigue. She is in the best spirits I have seen her in since we began this journey.
Tomorrow we go to Emory Clinic at 8:30 am for lab work. I am sure she will get a chemo treatment and will most likely get blood transfusion and or platelets. These both will give her more energy. This is normal.
We will find out if she gets to stay home next week and go to the clinic 3 times or if we have to go back to hospital and stay for all the transfusions she will need as her blood counts start to fall. This is normal for her to need these in each regiment.
Please pray that she will get to stay home.
Will update as soon as we find out tomorrow.
Thanks,
Sam
Tomorrow we go to Emory Clinic at 8:30 am for lab work. I am sure she will get a chemo treatment and will most likely get blood transfusion and or platelets. These both will give her more energy. This is normal.
We will find out if she gets to stay home next week and go to the clinic 3 times or if we have to go back to hospital and stay for all the transfusions she will need as her blood counts start to fall. This is normal for her to need these in each regiment.
Please pray that she will get to stay home.
Will update as soon as we find out tomorrow.
Thanks,
Sam
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
I know Dad normally updates the blog but I wanted to tell everyone how nice it was to spend time with mom today. I took the boys to see mom around lunch time today. She felt good enough to walk down to the play set and watch the boys play which is pretty unusual. I was so thankful for her good day physically and mentally. It is so hard to see her in the "daze" that comes with the chemo. Its not mom at all and it was a refreshing to see her act her normal self today.
Thank you all for your continued prayers and encouraging words. You will never know how much it means to all of us to have such good friends in our lives. So many of you have helped me personally with the kids or just by letting me vent about the trials of the day...you will never know how much I appreciate it. I am so blessed to have such wonderful friends and family. I have learned in the last few months how special loved ones are to me and what matters most in this life. We do not know what the future holds and we are not promised tomorrow. Make sure you tell your loved ones just how much you love them EVERYDAY. Love you all and keep the prayers comin...
Nat
Thank you all for your continued prayers and encouraging words. You will never know how much it means to all of us to have such good friends in our lives. So many of you have helped me personally with the kids or just by letting me vent about the trials of the day...you will never know how much I appreciate it. I am so blessed to have such wonderful friends and family. I have learned in the last few months how special loved ones are to me and what matters most in this life. We do not know what the future holds and we are not promised tomorrow. Make sure you tell your loved ones just how much you love them EVERYDAY. Love you all and keep the prayers comin...
Nat
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Tuesday May 19th.....Lab Visit
Went to Emory Clinic today for follow up lab work to check her blood count levels. Got a good report and needed no transfusions today. This is not painful just time consuming.
We go back Friday for another check and will see the Dr. They told us to bring our bags just in case she needs to stay.
Today the Drs. nurse told us that Dr. Khoury which is her main Dr. said he may let her stay home next week and come in 3 times for transfusions rather than be in hospital for a week. We hope that happens. I'd rather take her there 3 times and have her home than for her to have to stay at the hospital.
She is really doing good. Had a wonderful day and was almost herself today.
Tomorrow will be an even better day.
Seems just like they said that each regiment gets a little easier.
We saw 2 people there today that were post transplant and were doing well. That's so encouraging to her to see other people that have had it doing well.
She's sleeping right now. I usually update the blog after I put her to bed. Resting well. Is sleeping all night now.
Today had no nausea or side effects to any degree.
Please keep praying for God's mercy on her as she goes through this very difficult journey.
Thanks to Denny Maulding for all the wonderful food he brought today and for all the other things he has done for us.
Thank You Anthony for all you do for me and for helping me so much with her meds. It's almost overwhelming to keep up with all she has to take with it changing so much.
Will continue to keep you posted. Thanks for caring about us.
Sam
We go back Friday for another check and will see the Dr. They told us to bring our bags just in case she needs to stay.
Today the Drs. nurse told us that Dr. Khoury which is her main Dr. said he may let her stay home next week and come in 3 times for transfusions rather than be in hospital for a week. We hope that happens. I'd rather take her there 3 times and have her home than for her to have to stay at the hospital.
She is really doing good. Had a wonderful day and was almost herself today.
Tomorrow will be an even better day.
Seems just like they said that each regiment gets a little easier.
We saw 2 people there today that were post transplant and were doing well. That's so encouraging to her to see other people that have had it doing well.
She's sleeping right now. I usually update the blog after I put her to bed. Resting well. Is sleeping all night now.
Today had no nausea or side effects to any degree.
Please keep praying for God's mercy on her as she goes through this very difficult journey.
Thanks to Denny Maulding for all the wonderful food he brought today and for all the other things he has done for us.
Thank You Anthony for all you do for me and for helping me so much with her meds. It's almost overwhelming to keep up with all she has to take with it changing so much.
Will continue to keep you posted. Thanks for caring about us.
Sam
Monday, May 18, 2009
Monday May 15th
Charmaine had a much better day today. Starting to gain a little strength back. Nat and the kids came by to see her today as well as Stefanie to cook her some potato soup. Connie, our daughter in law (Casey's wife) came by also this afternoon. She has a common thread with Charmaine. She went through a similar chemo treatment a couple of years ago on the very same floor that Charmaine is on at Emory and survived. God really does have a plan and a purpose in all things.
We go back to the clinic tomorrow at 11am the Friday am. They told us to bring our bags Friday. We may stay depending on her blood count. May get blood or plasma tomorrow but will probable be Friday.
Thank You all for your calls, emails, and cards we get, it really means a lot.
Today she had an almost normal look in her eyes.
More later,
Sam
We go back to the clinic tomorrow at 11am the Friday am. They told us to bring our bags Friday. We may stay depending on her blood count. May get blood or plasma tomorrow but will probable be Friday.
Thank You all for your calls, emails, and cards we get, it really means a lot.
Today she had an almost normal look in her eyes.
More later,
Sam
Sunday, May 17, 2009
Sunday May 17th
Today was a very difficult day for Charmaine.
The chemo regiments rotate from A to B. She will have 4 of each totalling 8.
This was the 2nd of the A regiment. We had forgotten how tough the A regiment was on her. The first one of these she had, she was at Emory for 18 days straight.
Today she has been so very weak and so nauseated that she could hardly move.
As I have said before, when she is at Emory I miss her so very bad. When she is home I worry.
Most of the time today she was in somewhat of a dazed stupor with times of nausea. She gets scared when this happens. Wondering if she will make it through this all.
Stefanie came over this afternoon and sit with her for a while. She soothes her spirit and makes her peaceful.
Tomorrow will be a better day for her I pray.
Days like today are tough for all of us.
I promise you all that are faithful to read this blog about her that I will keep you posted on the truth with all that is going on with her. I owe that to you if you are so faithful to check on her each day. God already knows anyway.
The meds she takes every day are nearly overwhelming to keep up with because they change so often. I have a detailed list with the times and meds posted to go by. I'm afraid if something happened to me no one would know, so I have it marked so a stranger could come in and give the to her without error.
We are .3750% of the way to finish the chemo. Trust me, at this stage even the decimals matter. The next round will be over the half way point.
Tomorrow at home, God willing, then to the clinic on Tue am.
Now she sleeps soundly for a while.
Tomorrow will be a better day,
Please pray that she will find peace in all this.
Sam
The chemo regiments rotate from A to B. She will have 4 of each totalling 8.
This was the 2nd of the A regiment. We had forgotten how tough the A regiment was on her. The first one of these she had, she was at Emory for 18 days straight.
Today she has been so very weak and so nauseated that she could hardly move.
As I have said before, when she is at Emory I miss her so very bad. When she is home I worry.
Most of the time today she was in somewhat of a dazed stupor with times of nausea. She gets scared when this happens. Wondering if she will make it through this all.
Stefanie came over this afternoon and sit with her for a while. She soothes her spirit and makes her peaceful.
Tomorrow will be a better day for her I pray.
Days like today are tough for all of us.
I promise you all that are faithful to read this blog about her that I will keep you posted on the truth with all that is going on with her. I owe that to you if you are so faithful to check on her each day. God already knows anyway.
The meds she takes every day are nearly overwhelming to keep up with because they change so often. I have a detailed list with the times and meds posted to go by. I'm afraid if something happened to me no one would know, so I have it marked so a stranger could come in and give the to her without error.
We are .3750% of the way to finish the chemo. Trust me, at this stage even the decimals matter. The next round will be over the half way point.
Tomorrow at home, God willing, then to the clinic on Tue am.
Now she sleeps soundly for a while.
Tomorrow will be a better day,
Please pray that she will find peace in all this.
Sam
Saturday, May 16, 2009
Saturday May 16th.........Came Home
This 3rd round went much better than the others, except for the problems with the lumbar puncture I told you about. We were able to leave today earlier than we expected. Got her home about 4:15 today.
She is feeling well but fatigued from the meds of the week. Very glad to be home.
We go back Tuesday and Friday to clinic for lab tests, blood and platelets.
At Emory Hospital no matter where you are, at any given time, over the speaker system you may hear "CODE MET ROOM 603E". They repeat it 3 or 4 times. It means that the patient has stopped breathing or the heart has stopped.
Yesterday afternoon we heard those very words "CODE MET ROOM 603E". It was 3 doors up the hall from us. We were in 606E. For a while there were 5 to 10 people in the hall in front of the man's door then all settled down. That's the 2ND CODE MET we have had on our floor while we were there. This morning that same man died. They are not sure why. An autopsy is being ordered. Pray for his family.
This did not not upset us. We know that God is in control and knows even how many hairs are on our head(Matt 10:30). Nothing happens without Him causing it or allowing it to happen for His own purpose. If He can calm a raging sea with just His words(Mark 4:39) surely He will see us through this storm.
Looking forward to a wonderful weekend with my beloved wife at home with me.
Sam
She is feeling well but fatigued from the meds of the week. Very glad to be home.
We go back Tuesday and Friday to clinic for lab tests, blood and platelets.
At Emory Hospital no matter where you are, at any given time, over the speaker system you may hear "CODE MET ROOM 603E". They repeat it 3 or 4 times. It means that the patient has stopped breathing or the heart has stopped.
Yesterday afternoon we heard those very words "CODE MET ROOM 603E". It was 3 doors up the hall from us. We were in 606E. For a while there were 5 to 10 people in the hall in front of the man's door then all settled down. That's the 2ND CODE MET we have had on our floor while we were there. This morning that same man died. They are not sure why. An autopsy is being ordered. Pray for his family.
This did not not upset us. We know that God is in control and knows even how many hairs are on our head(Matt 10:30). Nothing happens without Him causing it or allowing it to happen for His own purpose. If He can calm a raging sea with just His words(Mark 4:39) surely He will see us through this storm.
Looking forward to a wonderful weekend with my beloved wife at home with me.
Sam
Friday, May 15, 2009
May 14th and 15th Update
Today, Friday, is the 4th day of this 3rd round of chemo. This week has been much easier on her than the past treatments. A little fatigue, a little diarrhea but not nearly like the 1st.
The biggest problem this week has been the spinal punctures. They are like an epidural but spinal fluid is drawn out and chemo injected. Wednesday they had a very hard time finding the right spot and had to stick her twice. Today the PA tried this morning and made 2 sticks and was not comfortable doing it. It was rescheduled for this afternoon. Michael another PA came in at 4 pm and did it. This time he hit a nerve and the pain was very intense with shooting pain down the left leg into the foot. It slowly went away while he put the chemo in but did the same thing when he removed the needle. Now she lays flat and sleeps for 2 hrs after this to prevent headaches.
Now I am afraid she will fear having the spinals after this happened. She has to have 2 each round to prevent the cancer from going into her spinal fluid and brain so they are not an option.
I believe that the enormous amount of prayers going up for her are the reason she has had a good week.
We should get to come home tomorrow afternoon barring no unexpected things.
We will come back to the clinic on Tue and Fri of next week for blood tests, waiting for her counts to fall again, then we come back here to get transfusions and plasma. Same cycle each time.
We hope you all have a wonderful weekend and we thank you all so much for caring and for praying for her so much.
Sam
The biggest problem this week has been the spinal punctures. They are like an epidural but spinal fluid is drawn out and chemo injected. Wednesday they had a very hard time finding the right spot and had to stick her twice. Today the PA tried this morning and made 2 sticks and was not comfortable doing it. It was rescheduled for this afternoon. Michael another PA came in at 4 pm and did it. This time he hit a nerve and the pain was very intense with shooting pain down the left leg into the foot. It slowly went away while he put the chemo in but did the same thing when he removed the needle. Now she lays flat and sleeps for 2 hrs after this to prevent headaches.
Now I am afraid she will fear having the spinals after this happened. She has to have 2 each round to prevent the cancer from going into her spinal fluid and brain so they are not an option.
I believe that the enormous amount of prayers going up for her are the reason she has had a good week.
We should get to come home tomorrow afternoon barring no unexpected things.
We will come back to the clinic on Tue and Fri of next week for blood tests, waiting for her counts to fall again, then we come back here to get transfusions and plasma. Same cycle each time.
We hope you all have a wonderful weekend and we thank you all so much for caring and for praying for her so much.
Sam
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Wednesday May 13th
Check in yesterday was a bit hectic but got settled in about 10 am in room 606E this time.
So far she has had no side effects from the chemo and slept soundly all night last night. Natalie stayed with her last night. Stefanie tonight.
Has been up walking laps around the floor today and has an ok appetite for this time.
Just finished getting 1st of 2 spinal taps with chemo injected and is resting good now.
Yesterday after taking 10 steroid pills at once before the 1s round of chemo she did have a rather bad anxiety attack which is a side effect of that drug. They gave her adavan and settled her down. Hasn't happened again but she did just get her 2nd dose of the steroid minutes ago. We'll see how it goes. She is having a very peaceful day today and in good spirits.
Thanks to all of you again for caring and praying for her so much.
Sam
So far she has had no side effects from the chemo and slept soundly all night last night. Natalie stayed with her last night. Stefanie tonight.
Has been up walking laps around the floor today and has an ok appetite for this time.
Just finished getting 1st of 2 spinal taps with chemo injected and is resting good now.
Yesterday after taking 10 steroid pills at once before the 1s round of chemo she did have a rather bad anxiety attack which is a side effect of that drug. They gave her adavan and settled her down. Hasn't happened again but she did just get her 2nd dose of the steroid minutes ago. We'll see how it goes. She is having a very peaceful day today and in good spirits.
Thanks to all of you again for caring and praying for her so much.
Sam
Monday, May 11, 2009
Monday May 11th
Charmaine has had a good day. Has been anticipating going back to Emory tomorrow. Is very tired tonite from seeing the kids today but fine.
It is getting more and more emotional when we have to go back.
We will be there at 8 am in the morning to start round 3 of 8.
Think we will be there till Sunday or Monday will let you all know.
It is very sad to see her packing her bags to go back but it's one more stepping stone to life as she knew it before.
She's unbelievable.
Thanks for your prayers,
Sam
It is getting more and more emotional when we have to go back.
We will be there at 8 am in the morning to start round 3 of 8.
Think we will be there till Sunday or Monday will let you all know.
It is very sad to see her packing her bags to go back but it's one more stepping stone to life as she knew it before.
She's unbelievable.
Thanks for your prayers,
Sam
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Sunday......May 10th..
Charmaine has had a good weekend here at home and is happy to be home for Mother's Day.
She had an almost normal day on Saturday with little fatigue. The meds for anxiety may be starting to kick in.
Thank You LeAnn for bringing the sweet treats for her.
Thanks to Vicki and Dianne for your visits. Thanks to many others for your calls and cards.
We go back Tuesday at 8 am for 3rd round. We will probably be there till Sunday or Monday on this one.
Happy Mother's Day to you all. If you can, read Proverbs chapter 31. I've always said that's the chapter in the Bible that reminds me of Charmaine.
This is my first Mother's Day without my mother. She passed away January 15th of this year.
More later...............
Sam
Charmaine had a wonderful Mother's Day. She got to see all of children and grand kids. She wouldn't have had it any other way. This evening she was exhausted from the day and turned in earlier than normal. It was worth it for her.
She looked beautiful today.
I love her more than life.
She thinks she wears me out taking care of her. She does not know how much it pleases me to take care of her. I'm so glad she shared her life with me. Looking forward to much more.
She made me a better man.
Sam
She had an almost normal day on Saturday with little fatigue. The meds for anxiety may be starting to kick in.
Thank You LeAnn for bringing the sweet treats for her.
Thanks to Vicki and Dianne for your visits. Thanks to many others for your calls and cards.
We go back Tuesday at 8 am for 3rd round. We will probably be there till Sunday or Monday on this one.
Happy Mother's Day to you all. If you can, read Proverbs chapter 31. I've always said that's the chapter in the Bible that reminds me of Charmaine.
This is my first Mother's Day without my mother. She passed away January 15th of this year.
More later...............
Sam
Charmaine had a wonderful Mother's Day. She got to see all of children and grand kids. She wouldn't have had it any other way. This evening she was exhausted from the day and turned in earlier than normal. It was worth it for her.
She looked beautiful today.
I love her more than life.
She thinks she wears me out taking care of her. She does not know how much it pleases me to take care of her. I'm so glad she shared her life with me. Looking forward to much more.
She made me a better man.
Sam
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Thursday...... May 7th.....Update
The last two days have been generally good days for Charmaine. She has been in no physical pain but a bit weak. Her appetite is OK but she seems to change her food habits often on which foods she can eat. This is normal.
The stress and anxiety of all this is starting to take a toll on her. The Dr's. warned us of this and said 80% of patients need some help with it. We got some meds yesterday that should help her. Will take a few days to kick in we are told.
We were able to see Anthony and Alecia last night for home cooked veggies. That was nice. Thanks guys.
Thanks to an old friend of Charmaine's, Linda Huffstatler for coming by and visiting her and for the soup.
Thanks to countless ones of you for the encouraging cards and letters. Thank you especially Cheryl for your notes and poems. They lift her spirits.
Tomorrow at 2pm we go back to Emory Clinic for lab work and Dr. visit. I expect them to have us check in Monday am for the 3rd round to start. Will let you all know tomorrow on that.
I think she will be home for Mother's Day. Large crowds of people and long visits with talking tend to make her very nervous so I'll be watching out for that this week end.
This afternoon and evening she has been so very tired she could hardly hold her head up. Just seemed to come on her fast. As I have said before, it's amazing how fast things can change on her in a very short time. I put her to bed early tonite. Hope the rest will help the fatigue.
Please pray that she can have a peaceful spirit and a positive attitude during this process. It's very hard for her to stay up mentally with all the things that's going on in her body and mind.
We believe very strongly that God is always in control and will never leave us.
Hug the ones you love everyday and tell them how much you love them. Everything can change in the blink of an eye. We are not promised a tomorrow.
Thanks for your prayers,
Sam
Clinic visit update,
Visit went good today. All blood counts from lab report was good. We check in Tuesday morning at 8 am for 3rd round of chemo. There is 8 in all. We are almost half way. Then the bone marrow transplant.
Charmaine felt much better today and this afternoon. The Dr. told her she would have to learn to pace herself on the days she felt good and not over do it. That's what happened yesterday with the fatigue. She felt good and tried to do to much.
Today the Dr. told her to stay tough that she had absolutely no doubt that she would make it through all this and be fine. That's encouraging news for us to hear.
The hardest part of this journey is to keep our eyes on God and His will instead of our human emotions. There must be a higher purpose in all of this. Pray that we will be able to focus on that.
Sam
The stress and anxiety of all this is starting to take a toll on her. The Dr's. warned us of this and said 80% of patients need some help with it. We got some meds yesterday that should help her. Will take a few days to kick in we are told.
We were able to see Anthony and Alecia last night for home cooked veggies. That was nice. Thanks guys.
Thanks to an old friend of Charmaine's, Linda Huffstatler for coming by and visiting her and for the soup.
Thanks to countless ones of you for the encouraging cards and letters. Thank you especially Cheryl for your notes and poems. They lift her spirits.
Tomorrow at 2pm we go back to Emory Clinic for lab work and Dr. visit. I expect them to have us check in Monday am for the 3rd round to start. Will let you all know tomorrow on that.
I think she will be home for Mother's Day. Large crowds of people and long visits with talking tend to make her very nervous so I'll be watching out for that this week end.
This afternoon and evening she has been so very tired she could hardly hold her head up. Just seemed to come on her fast. As I have said before, it's amazing how fast things can change on her in a very short time. I put her to bed early tonite. Hope the rest will help the fatigue.
Please pray that she can have a peaceful spirit and a positive attitude during this process. It's very hard for her to stay up mentally with all the things that's going on in her body and mind.
We believe very strongly that God is always in control and will never leave us.
Hug the ones you love everyday and tell them how much you love them. Everything can change in the blink of an eye. We are not promised a tomorrow.
Thanks for your prayers,
Sam
Clinic visit update,
Visit went good today. All blood counts from lab report was good. We check in Tuesday morning at 8 am for 3rd round of chemo. There is 8 in all. We are almost half way. Then the bone marrow transplant.
Charmaine felt much better today and this afternoon. The Dr. told her she would have to learn to pace herself on the days she felt good and not over do it. That's what happened yesterday with the fatigue. She felt good and tried to do to much.
Today the Dr. told her to stay tough that she had absolutely no doubt that she would make it through all this and be fine. That's encouraging news for us to hear.
The hardest part of this journey is to keep our eyes on God and His will instead of our human emotions. There must be a higher purpose in all of this. Pray that we will be able to focus on that.
Sam
Monday, May 4, 2009
Monday ............May 4th
Over the weekend Charmaine has been so very weak she could hardly get up, with little appetite. Sunday morning we called the clinic and spoke with one of the doctors about this. She said the weakness should start going away today and it has. This morning she was able to eat a good breakfast and has been up for most of the day and even felt like visitors.
A very dear friend to us both, Cheryl Williams, came by and spent the morning with Charmaine and let me go run some errands. Thank you Cheryl for your visit. You always give her the lift she needs to make it through the day. Thanks for the notes you have sent her.
David and Jo Marie McLendon came by for a while as well. We miss them so much since they moved to Blue Ridge.
This afternoon at 4 some of her old friends from church are coming to see her. I have her resting up now so she will not get too tired at once.
It has been so nice to see her up and feeling like moving around. I think she will get better as the week passes on.
We go back to the clinic for lab work on Friday. We'll find out then when we check in for 3rd round to start.
I want to thank the Maulding family for their kindness during this time. These are very close friends of Charmaine's from Paulding county. Thanks for the food it was great and for other acts that have helped make our life better.
Thank You Russ and Jane Parker for your visit and for the food. It was good to see old friends again. Russ your kind words to her when you were leaving helped a lot.
Seems now the mental stress is taking a toll on her. Pray that God would give her the peace of mind she needs to fight this fight.
More later......................
Sam
Charmaine had a very good day on Monday. Had lots of visits and saw some of the kids and grand kids. Was able to stay up all day and had good appetite.
Tomorrow will be an even better day.
Thanks to all.
A very dear friend to us both, Cheryl Williams, came by and spent the morning with Charmaine and let me go run some errands. Thank you Cheryl for your visit. You always give her the lift she needs to make it through the day. Thanks for the notes you have sent her.
David and Jo Marie McLendon came by for a while as well. We miss them so much since they moved to Blue Ridge.
This afternoon at 4 some of her old friends from church are coming to see her. I have her resting up now so she will not get too tired at once.
It has been so nice to see her up and feeling like moving around. I think she will get better as the week passes on.
We go back to the clinic for lab work on Friday. We'll find out then when we check in for 3rd round to start.
I want to thank the Maulding family for their kindness during this time. These are very close friends of Charmaine's from Paulding county. Thanks for the food it was great and for other acts that have helped make our life better.
Thank You Russ and Jane Parker for your visit and for the food. It was good to see old friends again. Russ your kind words to her when you were leaving helped a lot.
Seems now the mental stress is taking a toll on her. Pray that God would give her the peace of mind she needs to fight this fight.
More later......................
Sam
Charmaine had a very good day on Monday. Had lots of visits and saw some of the kids and grand kids. Was able to stay up all day and had good appetite.
Tomorrow will be an even better day.
Thanks to all.
Friday, May 1, 2009
April 30.......Update
Charmaine has enjoyed being at home more than you could imagine. She feels very tired. Just can't regain her energy and has no appetite. Feels OK just tired.
Friday am we go back to Emory Clinic for lab work on blood and a Dr. visit. She may have to have a blood transfusion while we are there. That may be why she is so tired if the red blood count has fallen again. It is normal for that to happen.
The Dr at Emory stopped our dentist visit. He said absolutely not unless she had a bad tooth ache so we cancelled.
She has slept quite well here at home but is developing that nagging cough again. Cough meds help.
She has started to have 2 shots per day here for blood thinning because of the blood clot in her lung. She gives them to herself. Has to give them in the tummy just below the naval.
Will update later on the results of the Dr. visit.
Sam
Visit to the clinic went well. All results on lab test today were pleasing to the Dr. Good news is that we do not go back till next Friday May 8th to lab for workup. This means she will home for Mother's Day next Sunday. As her blood counts continue to rise she should be stronger everyday. She did not have to have a transfusion today.
I would guess they will have us check in on Monday May 11th for 3rd round of chemo. They really like to start the rounds on Monday's if possible.
She was able to eat an entire BBQ sandwich from Wallace BBQ today for lunch.
Sam
Friday am we go back to Emory Clinic for lab work on blood and a Dr. visit. She may have to have a blood transfusion while we are there. That may be why she is so tired if the red blood count has fallen again. It is normal for that to happen.
The Dr at Emory stopped our dentist visit. He said absolutely not unless she had a bad tooth ache so we cancelled.
She has slept quite well here at home but is developing that nagging cough again. Cough meds help.
She has started to have 2 shots per day here for blood thinning because of the blood clot in her lung. She gives them to herself. Has to give them in the tummy just below the naval.
Will update later on the results of the Dr. visit.
Sam
Visit to the clinic went well. All results on lab test today were pleasing to the Dr. Good news is that we do not go back till next Friday May 8th to lab for workup. This means she will home for Mother's Day next Sunday. As her blood counts continue to rise she should be stronger everyday. She did not have to have a transfusion today.
I would guess they will have us check in on Monday May 11th for 3rd round of chemo. They really like to start the rounds on Monday's if possible.
She was able to eat an entire BBQ sandwich from Wallace BBQ today for lunch.
Sam
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